Dreams come true as Etihad Airways and Mumbai Indians spread cheer and happiness to children

Mumbai Indians cricketing stars, defending champions of the Indian Premier League, brought smiles and cheers to over 40 lucky children during a special evening hosted by the airline for its top selling travel agents this week.

Children from Magic Bus,
a leading Indian non-governmental organisation working on moving youngsters out
of poverty, were treated to an unforgettable meet and greet gathering with some
of the world’s top cricket players.

Joined by children of Etihad
Airways’ leading travel agents in Mumbai, the youngsters had a fantastic evening
in the company of their sporting heroes.

The players, led by
coach Ricky
Ponting and team captain Rohit Sharma, signed autographs and had pictures taken
with the youngsters, making it a dream come true for the young boys and girls
who were also treated to Etihad Airways and Mumbai Indians merchandise.

Later in the evening, the Mumbai Indians attended a
cocktail reception just for frontline travel agents who are part of Etihad
Airways’ highly successful ‘SuperSeller’ trade incentive and loyalty programme.

“Seeing the beaming smiles of so many children
from the Magic Bus India Foundation and children of our travel agents meeting
their cricketing heroes provided a great sense of pride and fulfilment as
Etihad Airways is committed to supporting local initiatives and giving back to
the community.

“The Mumbai Indians is one of the biggest sporting brands
in India and Etihad Airways is one of the biggest airline brands in India. We
were delighted to bring together the two brands for a great evening with our travel
trade partners who are among our biggest supporters in India.”

Magic Bus takes children on
a journey from childhood towards livelihood and out of poverty by using an
education and activity-based programme delivered by youth mentors. Its work
in 22 states across India equips some of the country’s poorest and most
vulnerable children and young people with the skills and knowledge needed for
sustainable livelihoods.

Etihad Airways and strategic
partner Jet Airways are in their third year of sponsoring the Mumbai Indians in
the Vivo Indian Premier League T20 Season. The Mumbai Indians is one of the
most successful franchise teams in the IPL, crowned champions of the 2013 and
2015 tournaments.